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The CPT® Code 59051 refers to the process of fetal monitoring during labor conducted by a consulting physician who is not the attending physician. This procedure involves the interpretation of fetal monitoring data and the generation of a written report based on that interpretation. In this context, the consulting physician does not supervise the labor; rather, their role is limited to analyzing the data collected during the monitoring process. The procedure typically includes the insertion of a catheter into the amniotic sac through the cervix, which allows for the monitoring of uterine contractions. Additionally, an electrode is placed directly on the fetus's scalp to capture electrocardiographic data, providing critical information about the fetus's heart rate and overall well-being during labor. It is important to note that if the consulting physician also supervises the labor and interprets the findings, a different code, CPT® 59050, should be used. However, for CPT® 59051, the focus is solely on the interpretation of the data and the documentation of that interpretation in a written report, without any supervisory responsibilities during the labor process.
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The procedure associated with CPT® Code 59051 is indicated in specific clinical scenarios where continuous fetal monitoring is necessary during labor. The following conditions may warrant the use of this code:
The procedure for CPT® Code 59051 involves several key steps that ensure accurate fetal monitoring and data interpretation. The following outlines the procedural steps:
After the procedure associated with CPT® Code 59051, the consulting physician's role is primarily focused on the interpretation of the data and the documentation of findings. There are no specific post-procedure care requirements associated with this code, as the consulting physician does not supervise the labor. However, it is essential for the attending physician to review the written report generated by the consulting physician to make informed decisions regarding the ongoing management of labor and delivery. Continuous monitoring of the fetus may still be required, depending on the clinical situation and the findings reported.
| Short Descr | FETAL MONITOR/INTERPRET ONLY | Medium Descr | FETAL MONITR LABOR PHYS WRTTN REPRT INTERPJ ONLY | Long Descr | Fetal monitoring during labor by consulting physician (ie, non-attending physician) with written report; interpretation only | Status Code | Active Code | Global Days | XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 0 - Physician Service Code | Multiple Procedures (51) | 0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure... | Co-Surgeons (62) | 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure. | Team Surgery (66) | 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | APC Status Indicator | Code Not Recognized by OPPS when submitted on Outpatient Hospital Part B Bill Type (12x/13x) | Type of Service (TOS) | 2 - Surgery | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | P6C - Minor procedures - other (Medicare fee schedule) | MUE | 2 | CCS Clinical Classification | 139 - Fetal monitoring |
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| 1995-01-01 | Added | First appearance in code book in 1995. |
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